Understanding What Motivates Students to Use Digital Platforms for Cybersecurity Learning and Awareness: A Conceptual Model

Cybersecurity awareness becomes crucial for their safety as phishing attacks continue to rise, especially among college students. These attacks occur due to a lack of proper cybersecurity learning to increase awareness among college students. This study investigates college students’ intention to use a digital platform for cybersecurity learning and awareness. We proposed a conceptual model by combining three underpinning theories: Self-Determination Theory (SDT), Protection Motivation Theory (PMT), and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Based on a narrative review from literature in the Scopus database, the primary factors on the intention of college students to use a digital platform for cybersecurity learning and awareness are divided into three categories: learning motivation factors, protection motivation factors, and technology use motivation factors.